PhD in Behavioral and Cognitive Mechanisms of Sustainable Consumer Food Choices University of Twente in Netherlands

The University of Twente invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Behavioral and Cognitive Mechanisms of Sustainable Consumer Food Choices. This opportunity is part of the REAP2SOW project, which aims to accelerate the transition to a sustainable, plant-forward protein system. The research focuses on how forgotten protein crops such as aardaker, white lupin, and quinoa can become part of everyday consumer choices. The project employs immersive virtual environments, eye tracking, and behavioral data analysis to understand how product properties, multisensory experiences, and presentation strategies shape consumer acceptance and decision-making.

The successful candidate will work with VR-based supermarket and dining simulations, eye-tracking tools, and behavioral experiments to explore how visual presentation, context, and multisensory cues influence consumer choices. The position is embedded in the Cognition, Data and Education (CoDE) group at the University of Twente and involves close collaboration with the Marketing and Consumer Behaviour Group at Wageningen University. The research contributes directly to the REAP2SOW mission and involves interaction with historians, agronomists, plant breeders, gastronomists, and industry partners.

Applicants should hold an MSc in cognitive psychology, computer science, consumer behavior, human-media interaction, or a related field. Experience or interest in experimental design, mixed-methods research, and ideally eye-tracking or VR-based behavioral studies is required. Strong analytical and statistical skills, proficiency in English, and the ability to communicate with both scientific and non-scientific stakeholders are essential. Affinity for multidisciplinary projects and willingness to learn Dutch are advantageous.

The position offers a gross monthly salary starting at €3,059 and increasing to €3,881 over four years, with excellent benefits including an 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, 29 holidays per year, paid parental leave, and full employee status at the University of Twente. The PhD candidate will benefit from a stimulating research environment, excellent mentorship, and a personal development program within the Twente Graduate School.

Applications are open until 28 February 2026. For more information, contact Dr. Funda Yildirim ([email protected]). To apply, submit your CV and motivation letter online. The selection process includes interviews and a possible presentation. Join a vibrant, interdisciplinary team and contribute to impactful research on sustainable food choices and consumer behavior.